They're cool to look at, blazingly fast, loaded with gadgets — and we wish we could have one. We're talking about the cars you read about in comics or watched on television and in the movies. There are literally dozens of four-wheeled (or more) fictional vehicles that have established themselves in popular culture. Hold onto your hats, folks, the ride is just about to get interesting. We've made a list of the top five cars we would like to see in our garage.

1. KITT — Knight Rider: The quintessential do-it-all vehicle, KITT appears to be a person — albeit, a smart aleck of a person — trapped inside a car's body. Programmed with a straitlaced, sardonic personality and a level of intelligence that far surpassed that of its driver, Michael Knight, KITT's sole mission was to protect Michael with everything it had at its disposal — which happened to be more gadgetry than the average Space Shuttle. The original series' KITT was designed around a 1982 Trans Am, which was extremely cool at the time. The new KITT from the 2008 movie and subsequent series was built on a 2008-2009 Shelby Mustang GT500KR. Can KITT get any more awesome than that? We don't think so.

    

2. Herbie the Love Bug — The Love Bug: Who doesn't love a VW Bug, especially one that's more faithful than your own dog? Based on the book, Car, Boy, Girl published in 1961 and written by Gordon Buford, Herbie took to the big screen in the 1968 Disney production, The Love Bug. Several full-length features followed, turning a loveable Volkswagen into a film icon. More like a headstrong pet than an actual mode of transportation, Herbie could choose his passengers, win races, and play matchmaker for his person. Herbie boasted no gadgets to speak of, but he sure was cuddly and a whole lot of fun.

    

3. The Batmobile — Batman: No matter which incarnation you like or grew up with, the Batmobile endures as a legend of comic books, television, and movies. Black and sleek, the Batmobile had power, versatility and a mind-boggling array of weaponry. The Batmobile's collection of technological wizardry was financed by the seemingly unlimited resources of ultra-billionaire Bruce Wayne, who apparently liked to occupy his time by dressing up in a black bat costume to fight crime in Gotham City. How did he make his money? We don't care — we came to see the car.

    

4. Mach 5 — Speed Racer: Speed Racer, whose Japanese name is Go Mifune, drives this sleek and sexy racecar, built by Speed's dad, "Pops" Racer. With a steering wheel crammed full of lettered switches, which deployed features for jumping, swimming, cutting, flying, and dealing with evil racecar drivers, the Mach Five became every kid's dream car when it first aired as an anime cartoon in 1967. Trixie and Chim Chim were a couple of lucky ducks.

    

5. Doc Brown’s DeLorean — Back to the Future: For those who grew up in the 1980s, the "time machine" wasn't an invention of H.G. Wells' character in a book published at the turn of the 19th century. It was a stainless steel 1982 DeLorean DMC 12, retrofitted with a flux capacitor and charged with a little plutonium snatched from a group of Libyan terrorists. In order to travel in time, 1.21 gigawatts of electricity was necessary, which, after the plutonium was depleted, was generated by a bolt of lightning, and later, a Mr. Fusion fusion generator. Time travel has never been the same.

    

We've all got those cars that we dream about, drool over, and dread the idea of paying bills on. They're normally fancier, sportier, or more impractical than we should consider. Even if you can't get the car you imagine yourself in somewhere down the road, you can find the perfect car for whatever stage of life you're in right now. With budget, style, and purpose in mind, these 10 cars are ideal for each step of your life, from the first to the last.

1. Moving on to big-kid underwear

   This classic car has been perfect for cruising for more than 30 years; if you didn't have one as a kid, we just feel sorry for you. The red and yellow Little Tikes Cozy Coupe is ideal for toddlers, and was one of the top-selling cars in the '90s — or it would've been if it was a real automobile. The newer models still let you drive the car Flintstones-style with your feet, but have remote controlled sounds of doors locking, horn blaring, and engine starting. This car has spawned many a good driver in the past few decades.

2. Learning to drive

   For most people, you'll be stuck learning to drive on whatever car your parents love the least. But if you had the chance to take any car out for your first spin around the neighborhood, the Honda Fit would be a great choice. Getting a slightly older model might make you feel less nervous about causing any dents or dings, and it'd be a smart move to opt for the manual transmission. Even though the majority of cars sold today are automatic, knowing how to drive a manual might come in handy someday, or at least boost your street cred. The Fit's clutch and gearshift are considered to be easier than many manual cars' equipment, so it's a good starting point for beginners.

3. Getting your driver's license

   When you finally get to drive all on your own, you probably want the cutest or coolest car to show off your new skills. That is probably the last thing you should be concerned with. We're not saying you've got to drive your grandma's Lincoln Town Car, but your priorities should be safety and cost. Appearance is much lower on the list. Trucks and SUVs aren't recommended for young drivers since they have a higher chance of rolling over, and sports cars are frowned upon since they will make kids feel more bad-ass than they are. A good choice is a sedan like the Nissan Sentra or Ford Focus, which are reliable and come standard with important safety equipment like stability control, air bags, and antilock brakes.

4. Moving off to college

   Word of advice: do not get a truck. Unless you want every friend you ever make during your four years in school to be guilting you into helping them move, stay away from the pick-ups. You're still going to want enough space to move some of your own stuff, start making your own trips to the grocery store, and tote your buddies around. The Hyundai Elantra is perfect, since it's one of the roomiest small cars, but not roomy enough to move someone's couch. It's also easy on the wallet with a base price of less than $16,000 and will let you travel home and back on fewer tanks of gas since it gets 40 highway mpg.

5. Going green

   You decided to become a vegan, join Greenpeace, and live in the woods — or you're just trying to reduce your carbon footprint. It's not a bad move since environmentally friendly cars are also budget friendly in the long run. But if you're just getting into the greener options, you might need to be pointed in the right direction. The Toyota Prius Hybrid is a reliable option, since it's been known for its environmentally friendly status for the past 10 years. If you really want to make the jump to a green car, the Nissan Leaf is an all-electric car that has all the amenities you'd want in a vehicle without any greenhouse gases or exhaust pollution.

6. Rolling in the dough and macking on the ladies

   Once you've hit that point in your life where you've made it big in your career and have cash to spare, you might want to throw a little of it toward wooing a woman (or man — dudes may be even more impressed by a girl driving an awesome car). Owning a nice car isn't a guarantee to win over every woman, but it definitely shows that you can take care of yourself. Something like the BMW MG Coupe is luxurious and fast enough to impress potential dates, but it doesn't look over-the-top impractical like other similar-grade cars, so you avoid looking like a complete tool. The more ridiculously macho cars are perfect for your later mid-life crisis.

7. Getting married

   You're making the biggest commitment of your life: tethering yourself to another person until one of you dies. This isn't a moment to be taken lightly, and your getaway car choice should reflect the importance of the occasion. A vintage car like a 1940 Buick Special Convertible Sedan or a '40s or '50s Hudson will make the day memorable for you, your new spouse, and for the guests at your wedding. The old classic cars are perfect for the car nerd in the groom and have a romantic air that the bride will love.

8. Toting kids to soccer practice

   Once your family's grown to include a kid or few, you're almost certainly going to want more room than a sedan offers. Even babies come with a boatload of accessories you need to keep them quiet, clean, and comfortable. You'll definitely want to find the safest options (after all, you've invested thousands of dollars in these little bundles of joy) with the maximum space. The Toyota Highlander and Sequoia are great choices for the family on the go. The family SUVs have room for sports equipment, science projects, and suitcases, in addition to the space for the kids themselves. The Highlander has seating for seven, Sequoia for eight. If you're looking for better fuel economy, go with the Highlander.

9. Finally retiring

   Now that your daily commute is over, you can choose a car you'll really enjoy without worrying about sitting for hours each day in stop-and-go traffic. You'll still want something affordable since you've got to stretch your money for the rest of your long life, but there are plenty of options for the smart retiree who wants to drive in comfort. The Chevy Malibu is perfect for someone who wants a smooth, stylish mid-size sedan with plenty of trunk room for picnic baskets or golf clubs. If you're in the market for an SUV, the Honda CR-V is one that won't take up too much real estate in your garage (you know, since you're using your workbench more now) but still gives you room for the grandkids and all their stuff.

10. Going out with a bang

    You're obviously not going to be around to care how stylish your ride to the cemetery is, but it's satisfying now to think about all your friends and family remembering you as the guy who made a graceful exit in a classic Rolls Royce hearse. You might want to start looking into the options now so you can write it into your will or give your family very, very specific instructions, but there's no reason you shouldn't have the hearse of your dreams. The Rolls Silver Cloud 1 is a good possibility, as well as finding a vintage Rolls that has been refurbished as a hearse.

Thanks to the Internet, car consumers can access countless resources to help them make informed, cost-effective purchases. Whether you're researching cars, car insurance, or financing, you can simply type a question into Google and receive an answer almost instantaneously. Among the dedicated websites advocating for the consumer, Urban Dictionary stands apart as the go-to site for crowd-sourced answers to questions. And when it comes to cars, almost any brand, model, or make you might consider purchasing is defined and described in helpful detail by Urban Dictionary's adolescent contributors. Here are 10 examples of what we're talking about. All quotes are taken verbatim from the Urban Dictionary website, errors and all.

1. Lamborghini

   This definition provides useful historical context: "also called a lambo this car was designed by ferruccio lamborghini who made his fortune by building tractors when he made his millions he went and bought a ferrari and drove it and when he met enzo ferrari (the man who started ferrari motors dah!) he complained about it and enzo told mr. lambo if he can make a better car do it then so he did and now most people think he has beaten the ferrari for the tittle of king of italies super car market."

2. Aston Martin

   A compelling argument for leaving well enough alone. James Bond would be proud to read this: "Solid British sports car made for hard racing. Ford took it over and decided to double production by machine-producing them. American car companies always f— up what was good about British. Aren't they satisfied with turning Vuaxhall into the sh-tty little things they are today?"

3. Maserati

   This is more than a car. It's an exotic drink and an adjective: "a mythical cocktail made of unknown, or unknowable ingredients. Ordered by skiers after a day on the slopes. The exotic name evokes the sleek Italian sports car. Saying the name makes you think 'fast' and 'delicious.'"

4. Corvette

   Somewhere on the Urban Dictionary site, there is a photo of an attractive woman in a baby-doll T-shirt with "No replacement for displacement" written across her chest: "An American muscle car that has withstood the tests of time. Fast, ellegant and cheap, the Corvette is more then a show car. The Z06 model comes in at about $55,000.00, witch is $45,000.00 less then a porsche or similar exoctic. The car can hand;le the car can accelearate. i own a Mazda RX-7..but I would the vette anyday. Wether your a ricer or a gear head one thing holds true…THERE IS NO REPLACEMENT FOR DISPLACEMENT."

5. Dodge Viper

   All you need to know and less: "The Dodge Viper is the most kick-ass car around. It totally owns the Corvette, no matter what anyone says."

6. Mustang

   Fair and unbiased, and grammatically creative: "a legendary car made by Ford infamous for poor cornering, interior build quality, and wet road handling famous for performance/dollar ratio, good looks, and exhaust sound that is an unbiased definition"

7. Camaro

   A definition with some additional psychological insight: "A vehicle, usually ranging in the model years of 1972-1992 seen in trailer parks across america. Has a 350 motor with nothing else but a chrome aircleaner & glasspacks. Jack sh-t for rear passenger space. Lots of rust. Owners' usually going through mid life crisis."

8. Firebird

   Somewhere, James Garner is smiling: "The gold coupe that got Malibu/L.A. private detective Jim Rockford out of many a jam from 1974-79, despite getting wrecked and rebuilt a number of times. The Firebird's specialty with a highly skilled driver like Rockford was the 180-degree turnaround-escape, done by gunning the car in reverse, cutting the wheel in either direction and throwing the car into drive at the 180-degree point (yes, he did it with an automatic) and laying rubber while pulling away. When we last saw Rockford in the '90s, he still had his beloved Firebird and saw it again wrecked, of course, during one of his cases."

9. Pontiac

   This is almost Shakespearean. Imagine Orson Welles or even William Shatner reading this copy: "THE most effective torque monsters ever produced, a brand that at one point in time dominated both NASCAR and the NHRA. Manufacturers of some of the sexiest cars ever created and crushed by general motors executive management and the federal government's non driving car czars. Only if there were more men like John Delorean, Jim Wangers, and Pete Estes who decided it was easier to ask forgiveness than permission and snuck the GTO out the back door."

10. Buick

    Those crazy kids and their Buicks: "Buicks are sadly underappreciated. Yes, they are all land yachts, and yes, they have a bad rep from old people not knowing how to drive them. But they run forever, can survive a crash with nearly anything, and nine times out of ten, are faster than your little import four-banger."

11. Oldsmobile

    And finally, some of you born before 1970 might remember singing these words in the coffee shops of Greenwich Village: "My Great Grandfather drove an Oldsmobile. My Grandfather drives an Oldsmobile. My Father drives an Oldsmobile. I drive an Oldsmobile. My children will not drive Oldsmobiles."

The transforming power of a journey is a literary theme dating back to when the first humans gathered around the fire to share their stories. Non-fictional travel writing goes back a ways too, but may include some creative license on the part of the author in an effort to tell a good story. Mark Twain's A Tramp Abroad is one such example. Below are ten books about the transformative power of travel, some well-known, some not so well-known, and a few by authors you may not have associated with the travel writing genre.

1. In Patagonia by Bruce Chatwin

   Patagonia is less the subject and more the location for Bruce Chatwin's anecdotal meditation on the mythologized, hard-to-confirm, and just plain weird. Chatwin was attempting to create a new form of travel writing that combined fictional accounts with historical data in order to take the reader to places even more unexpected than what they might imagine a place like Patagonia to be. Fellow travel writer Colin Thubron said, "In Patagonia isn't a history of that area, it's all about the strange inhabitants of it, and the weird leftovers."

2. The Snow Leopard by Peter Matthiessen

   In the critically acclaimed travel memoir The Snow Leopard, Peter Matthiessen describes a demanding trip through the Himalayan mountains in search of the region's rarer animals, including that mysterious leopard. Throughout the narrative, Matthiessen returns often to the memory of his late wife who shared his commitment to the Buddhist teachings that ultimately sustain him on this journey.

3. A Tramp Abroad by Mark Twain

   Author of some classic works of fiction involving travel, including Huckleberry Finn, Mark Twain's travel books are comedic yet reverent, blending autobiography, tall tales, travelogue, satire, and social criticism. The punning-ly titled A Tramp Abroad recounts, in acerbic and self-mocking prose, Twain's post-Civil War journey across Europe. The book's appendix includes Twain's infamous essay "The Awful German Language," which will appeal to any contemporary traveler who has unsuccessfully attempted to master a foreign language.

4. A House in Bali by Colin McPhee

   In 1930, American composer Colin McPhee heard a recording of Balinese gamelan music. McPhee was so moved by what he heard, he decided to travel to Bali to study and experience the country's music and culture firsthand. This beautifully and accessibly written account of his time in Bali served as the inspiration for the opera "A House In Bali" (2010) composed by Evan Ziporyn.

5. The Motorcycle Diaries: Notes on a Latin American Journey by Ernesto "Che" Guevara

   On January 4, 1952, a young medical student named Ernesto Guevara de la Serna hopped on a beat up motorcycle with his buddy Alberto Granada and began a eight-month road trip through South America. The journey, initially recorded in diary form and later turned into the narrative that became The Motorcycle Diaries, had a profound impact on Guevara. The poverty, suffering, and injustice he encountered in his travels awakened his political thinking and revolutionary spirit. And the course of Cuba's history would be forever changed.

6. The Year Before The Flood by Ned Sublette

   Musicology, sociology, and travel memoir come together in one of the best books you'll read about the city of New Orleans. The author, historian and musician Ned Sublette, is a Southerner based in New York City who temporarily relocates to New Orleans in the year before hurricane Katrina decimated the gulf coast to research the city's history, especially its Spanish and African heritage. Throughout the book, Sublette tries to wrap his head around some of the uglier aspects of life in New Orleans, including random violence and pervasive poverty, while celebrating the creativity and resilience of its populace. Everything you didn't know about New Orleans is in this book.

7. Tell My Horse: Voodoo and Life in Haiti and Jamaica by Zora Neale Hurston

   In one of the more unusual and unsettling travel books on this list, author and ethnologist Zora Neale Hurston recounts her 1930s journey to Haiti and Jamaica to document and participate in vodou (or voodoo) ceremonies. Hurston had previously encountered hoodoo and voodoo in her travels throughout the American South, especially while in New Orleans researching the life of the nineteenth century voodoo priestess Marie Laveau. During Hurston's Southern journey, she collected folk stories, anecdotes, and songs for her classic Mules and Men.

8. Pole to Pole by Michael Palin

   (hoarsely) "It's…" Michael Palin! Palin, who is perhaps best known as member of the British comedy troupe Monty Python's Flying Circus, has enjoyed a second career as a travel addict. Pole to Pole, as in from North Pole to South Pole, is the companion to the BBC television series of the same name, and includes additional details and personal reflections from Palin who wrote the book after filming. Palin bears the challenge of extreme traveling with tenacity and wit. At the top of his journey, seventeen miles from the North Pole, he writes: "I'm sure I'm not the only one of us looking down on this desolate wilderness who hasn't wished, for an impure moment, that the North Pole, rather than being in the middle of an ocean, was solid, well-marked and even supplied with a hut and a coffee machine."

9. Fugitives and Refugees: A Walk in Portland, Oregon by Chuck Palahniuk

   It is doubtful Portland, Oregon's office of tourism recommends visitors read Chuck Palahniuk's adults-only travel guide to the City of Roses. In Fugitives and Refugees Palahniuk, a Portland native, guides the reader through his city's weird and wacky subculture, including the annual Santa Rampage, where several men dressed as Santa take time to harass the local police, and the semiannual Apocalypse Café, where guests celebrate a post nuclear holocaust with a potluck. Throw in a lengthy chapter detailing the city's striptease joints and you have the perfect travel guide for people who didn't blink while watching "Fight Club."

10. The Woman Who Fell from the Sky: An American Woman's Adventures in the Oldest City on Earth by Jennifer Steil

    Jennifer Steil describes her book The Woman Who Fell From the Sky as "…a memoir of the most challenging year of my life." In 2006, Steil accepted an assignment to teach journalism to a group of amateur journalists at The Yemen Observer in Sana'a, the capital of The Republic of Yemen. The book describes Steil's experience living in Yemen as a woman and as a westerner, along with the day-to-day challenges of managing a newsroom. It also sheds light on the life of Muslim women in a conservative Arab country.

Buying a used car, even one that is just a couple of years old, can save you thousands over the price of a new model. Selling your car on your own has many advantages for both you the seller and for your the buyer. Whether buying or selling, there are steps you should take in advance to make sure your experience is a rewarding one.

When buying

1. Determine where or from whom you want to buy a used car

   Do you want to work with a dealership or private owner? Often this decision can come down to how much you are able to spend on a car. But there are other things to consider if both options are viable, including how you plan to finance your purchase and whether or not you want to buy a very specific model or type.

2. Research the value of the type of used car you want to buy

   Knowing the value of a used car will be to your advantage when it comes time to negotiate its price. There are several resources online that can help you confirm the value of a used car, including Edmunds.com and the online version of the Kelly Blue Book Keep in mind the sale price of a used car will vary depending on its condition, popularity, and type of warranty offered.

3. Find out how much it will cost to insure your used car

   Determining even the approximate cost of insuring your new used vehicle will help you budget realistically for the expense, and help in your negotiations with the seller. Free online auto insurance quotes are available from a range of online sources, including the ubiquitous GEICO, and, of course, our own resource page.

4. Take the car to a mechanic for inspection

   If the dealer or owner refuses to let you take the car to a mechanic, do not buy the vehicle! If you're buying the car from the owner, schedule a time where you can go to a mechanic together. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $100 for an inspection.

5. Run a vehicle history report on the car you plan to buy

   In addition to checking out the current condition of the car, you will want to know as much as possible about its history. Each car has a unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) that can be used for this purpose.

When selling

1. Consider your options for financing

   Cash down isn't always possible when purchasing a car. And you may not want to lease, although that is another option. Check with your bank about financing an auto purchase, and then compare their offer with the dealership's. And make sure you run a credit report yourself before the dealer does. You don't want any surprises.

2. Know the market for your car

   Buyers will (or should) be aware of the market value for your car, so you should be too. Compare your car to similar models, taking note of condition, mileage, and geographic location.

3. Make sure your car is clean, looks good, and is running well

   Put yourself in the shoes of the potential buyer. Do they really want to look or get inside a car littered with napkins from McDonald's and mud from when you last drove your dog to its favorite park? After a thorough cleaning, have your mechanic check out the car and issue a report about its condition. The data will prove helpful to both you and your potential buyer to negotiate a fair price. Additionally, consider ordering a CarFax report to show that the car's title and odometer reading accurate.

4. Advertise your car

   Craigslist, YouTube, or the traditional "For Sale" sign in the car window are all options for advertising your car. If composing copy for an ad, remember "OBO" means "or best offer," "asking price" means you are open to negotiating, and "firm" means you want to get the price you are naming.

5. Make sure you're ready to finalize the sale

   Check with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to determine the rules that govern the sale of motor vehicles in your state. You will need to sign over the title of your car to the new owner. Payment for your car should be made in cash or with a cashier's check. You might consider meeting the buyer for this final step at your bank.

European automobiles are often held up as examples of superior design and technology. But going back to the very beginnings of the auto industry, there have been more than a few duds, models that for a variety of reasons never took off with American consumers. Here are ten European cars, some with colorful histories, that never made it in the U.S.

1. Fiat 500

   

   U.S. sales of the Italian designed Fiat 500 plummeted back in the mid-'90s, but the car still continues to sell, albeit not all that well. Fiat's recent merger with Chrysler has resulted in a European-designed, Mexico-assembled automobile with a Detroit-made engine.

2. Renault 14

   

   The French-made Renault 14 (pictured above) terrified potential drivers thanks to an idiotic marketing campaign comparing the car to a pear. That is, a piece of fruit you can crush with one hand…

3. Yugo

   

   Voted the "Worst Car of the Millennium" by Car Talk, the heavily flawed Serbian Yugo arrived in the U.S. in the mid-'80s only to disappear from the market by the early '90s.

4. Citroën SM

   

   The SM was a well-loved manly man's car — Tonight Show host Jay Leno owns one — produced by French manufacturer Citroën from 1970 to 1975. However, it required European-based specialist care in order to run smoothly and safely. Sales plummeted once U.S. consumers became aware of this.

5. Peugeot 505

   

   French manufacturer Peugeot's U.S. sales were always sluggish, and the marque eventually disappeared in the mid-'80s. The 505 was one of the last Peugeot models to be sold in the U.S., and it didn't sell too badly, but consumers in general have never warmed up to French automobiles.

6. Skoda 105/120/125

   

   These three variations of the Czech-created rear-engine model produced between 1976 and 1989 were hopelessly dated when it came to design and technology. The cars made it as far as the Canadian market before being discontinued in 1990.

7. Merkur XR and Merkur Scorpio

   

   Here are two examples of Ford's attempt in the mid- to late-'80s to sell a European car to U.S. consumers that "looked" European (or just strange, depending on who you asked). Poor sales and new safety requirements for U.S. models including air bags contributed to Ford's decision to end production of these two cars.

8. BMW E36

   

   In spite of being a hit with European drivers, a high price tag and a hatchback (hunchback?) body style put U.S. buyers off from what was marketed as an "economy" BMW.

9. Peel P50

   

   Initially created in 1962 by Peel Engineering on the Isle of Man, the discontinued, now recently revived Peel P50 boasts three wheels and an electric motor with a top speed of 50 mph, although EU and U.K. laws require it to stay below 28 mph. If it takes off in England and the price of oil continues to skyrocket, who knows? Maybe there's a future in the U.S. for the world's slowest car?

10. Porsche 928

    

    Germany's Porsche AG's attempt to upgrade their popular Porsche 911. The price and look of the car (which apparently offended fans of the 911) ultimately doomed it to be discontinued, although not before developing its own fanbase.

Driving is a privilege that many teenagers and parents take for granted, but teenagers are the most at-risk group of drivers. Inexperience, peer pressure, and carelessness make driving an even bigger danger to teens and other drivers on the road. So before your teen driver cruises around this winter break, consider these discussing these 10 frightening facts about teen drivers.

1. Car crashes claim the lives of about eight teens a day

   Car crashes are the leading cause of death among U.S. teenagers, totaling about eight teen deaths per day. No other hazard claims as many teenage lives as motor vehicle accidents.

2. Teens are less likely to use seat belts

   Teenagers have the lowest rate of seat belt use compared to older drivers. In 2008, nearly three out of every four teen drivers killed in a drunk driving accident were not wearing a seat belt.

3. One passenger increases teen drivers' crash risk by 48%

   The more people teenagers tote around in their car, the greater their risk is for getting into a car accident. Carrying just one passenger increases a teenage driver's crash risk by an astonishing 48%. Add two or more passengers, and the accident risk increases even more.

4. Teenage male drivers and passengers are more likely to be killed in car crashes than females

   Male drivers and passengers, ages 15 to 19, have a greater risk of being killed in a car accident than females of the same age group. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 12,479 teenage males and 6,579 females were killed in a car crash from 2000 to 2006.

5. Nearly 60% of teen auto deaths occur before midnight

   The risk of fatal car crashes increases at night and nearly 60% of teen auto deaths happen before midnight. More than 40% of these fatal crashes occur between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m., when it is less visible and teens are more likely to be sleep deprived or under the influence.

6. Thirteen percent of teens admit to sending and responding to text messages while driving

   Teen drivers are more likely to be distracted behind the wheel, especially when using their cell phone. About 13% of teens admitted to sending and responding to text messages while driving, further increasing their chance of an accident.

7. Summer is the deadliest time for teenage drivers

   The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is the deadliest time for drivers ages 15 to 20, because students have more free time and are more likely to be driving at night. Less parental supervision and relaxed curfews allow for more risky behavior behind the wheel.

8. The first year of a teen's driving experience is the most dangerous

   A teen's first year of driving is by far the most dangerous time. However, after teens complete their first 1,500 miles of unsupervised driving, the risk of a crash drops by more than two-thirds.

9. Only 45% of teens said they would speak up if someone they were with was driving recklessly

   A frightening fact about teen drivers is that only 45% said they would speak up if they were riding with someone who made them feel unsafe. Teenagers don't want to challenge their friends or show that they're scared, so they have a tendency to not speak up when their friends are driving dangerously.

10. More than one-third of teen auto deaths involve speeding

    Speeding is one of the biggest risk factors in teen car crashes, which accounts for more than one-third of teen fatalities. Teen drivers often speed to impress their friends and break the law by racing other cars.

In our wildest dreams, we probably imagine ourselves traveling by bubble or transporter in the future. Of course, we'll all be wearing silver spandex and communicating telepathically, too, so maybe it's a blessing that the future hasn't become a reality yet. There are much cooler technologies just around the bend for our vehicles, though; some are even being used in a limited number of cars already. Keep your eyes open in the coming years for these awesome additions to the way we travel.

1. Compressed-air cars

   Making cars cleaner and more fuel-efficient seems to be higher up on companies' agendas than, say, making vehicles fly or giving us in-car blow-dryers and vending machines. While a dashboard microwave would be cool, saving money on gas while not worrying about your car running out of fuel would be just as awesome. There are still plenty of kinks to be worked out of the idea before being marketable, but many are looking at compressed air as a promising fuel source. Cars would use the same compressed air that you put in your tires, releasing less CO2 and saving drivers money. As it is, air pumps would probably need to be stronger and the range is relatively short, but scientists are working hard to find a way to make air work.

2. Platoons

   Nothing is more frustrating than the constant stopping and starting of rush-hour traffic or seeing a light turn green and the cars in front of you not moving until the light's already yellow. Waiting for drivers to react, especially when you're in a long line of vehicles, isn't just infuriating; it's also inefficient. You waste gas because of the air resistance — if you were able to safely drive closer to the car in front of you, you'd use less gas, which is the logic race car drivers and cyclists use when drafting behind another car. Platoons would allow cars to join a sort of caravan where the cars systems would link to that of a lead vehicle, taking the driving responsibilities away from the drivers in the platoon. All the cars would accelerate and brake together and could travel with only a few feet between them because you don't have to account for human reaction time. The idea would also speed up the flow of traffic since you wouldn't have to wait for individual drivers to move, but groups of as many as 25 vehicles.

3. Wireless charging stations

   Electric cars are starting to gain some traction in the consumer market, but most developers know they won't fully catch on until they can match the convenience and range of gas-driven vehicles. Most people hate the idea of having to plug in their car every night or risk breaking down on the side of the road the next day. It's hard enough to remember to plug in your phone; hooking up your car to your house is too much for a lot of people. That's why researchers are finding ways to charge electric cars wirelessly. By parking over a charging pad, cars will be able receive 3.3 kW of power without ever having to be plugged into the wall.

4. Vehicle Infrastructure Integration

   When we're driving, most of us aren't trying to communicate with the road or other people's cars. We're swearing and yelling at the driver who just cut us off or waving at the person who just let us merge in heavy traffic. But what if our cars were communicating too? Vehicle Infrastructure Integration is a big idea that is being researched a lot lately to try to figure out the best ways to implement it and form laws to use it best. VII would make it possible for vehicles to communicate with each other so each car would have information like how fast a nearby car is going, the intentions of the driver, and where exactly they're located to improve safety by braking or steering when needed. Each car would also communicate with the road, giving driving and traffic conditions to drivers.

5. Self-parking systems

   It won't be long until all cars can park themselves — many manufacturers have even added the feature in the past year. The dreaded task of parallel parking won't even be an issue as cars take control in parking situations. All a driver has to do is pull up alongside a suitable parking spot (those tiny spots won't work with the current technology) and let the system do the work. Some possible self-parking devices will even help you find a parking spot so you won't have to circle the block or parking lot 20 times waiting for someone to leave.

6. Bodies of batteries

   One of the current stumbling blocks for electric car design is the problem of the battery. Big, bulky batteries are more powerful, but weigh the car down. Lighter batteries won't take the car as far, so they don't make much sense to developers. One solution that is being researched is the idea of working the battery into the body of the car. Since the body has to be there anyway, you might as well make the most use out of every inch. The doors, roof, and hood would act as the battery, doing many of the best things that more traditional batteries do, like regenerative braking and storing a charge.

7. Pre-safe systems

   This is another system that is being used in one or two cars already, but is destined to become standard in cars of the future. Pre-safe systems, like that of the Mercedes Benz, are able to detect how far the car is from a vehicle or object in front of it. When it gets information that the vehicle is about to be involved in a crash, it braces the driver for impact. First, it gives a visual and auditory warning to the driver so he'll react if possible, and then it tightens the driver's seatbelt and moves his seat to a position that will keep injuries to a minimum. This is the next generation of car safety; cars won't just protect the passengers, they'll keep some crashes from happening.

8. Personal rapid transit

   OK, this isn't exactly a car of the future. It's more like an overhaul of transportation. With personal rapid transit, we wouldn't have to drive to destinations anymore. Instead, we'd take something you might compare to automated taxis — somewhere between a personal vehicle and a train. Groups of four to six people would take a small car that wouldn't have to stop at any stations on the way to their destination. They'd be connected to guideways somehow, but there would be many more routes that could be taken than with a traditional train. There aren't any personal rapid transit systems in the U.S. right now, but Heathrow Airport in London and a district in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates are trying the idea.

9. Foam bodies

   Today, we think of cars as heavy steel cages, but that doesn't mean they will always be that way. Foam or other plastics might offer a safer, lighter way for us to travel. In Thailand, where motorcycles and scooters are common forms of transportation, one company tried the foam idea on an enclosed, two-person car. The body is 90% foam, reinforced with aluminum and fiberglass, and only weighs 300 pounds. The six inches of foam on all sides had impressive results in the companies' tests where they crashed it into a four-ton truck. And just like those foam noodles you use in your pool, foam could keep cars afloat if you drive into water.

10. Hydrogen fuel cells

    One the most promising sources of clean energy for cars of the future is hydrogen. By using a fuel cell, hydrogen is converted into electricity that can be used as power and the only byproducts are heat and water, meaning no pollutants. NASA already uses hydrogen power to launch shuttles, but we're still several years away from seeing it become a part of our everyday lives. Hydrogen may be abundant on Earth, but it has to be separated from other elements when taken from water or natural gas. This is one of the main kinks that has to be worked out before making a hydrogen car marketable. The question remains whether there would be hydrogen refueling stations, a fuel converter built in the car, or miniature hydrogen plants in home garages.

A smart car buyer always considers how their new purchase will affect their bank account down the road. As you know, a car costs more than the sticker price, with gas, maintenance, and repairs comprising a portion of your true monthly car allowance. If you're stuck with an unreliable gas guzzler, then you could find yourself micromanaging your driving habits to avoid the inevitable financial hit — and that's neither convenient nor fun. The following cars (and SUV) are not only economical, but they maintain their value because of their proven reliability. For those reasons, their owners can drive free of the anxiety that often accompanies car ownership.

1. Honda Civic

   Known for being one of the most practical cars on the road, the Civic has forged quite a reputation in America since it was introduced in 1973. Its combination of low sticker price, reliability, excellent gas mileage, and high resale value has made it, at times, the bestselling car in the nation, a distinction that was previously unthinkable for a compact Japanese vehicle. According to fueleconomy.gov, the 2012 model (4 cyl, 1.8 L, Automatic 5-spd) gets 28 mpg city and 39 mpg highway, while the hybrid gets 44 mpg city and highway. Motor Trend states the average resale value of a 2008 DX coupe is $13,932.

2. Honda Accord

   Essentially the big brother of the Civic, the Accord possesses the same positive attributes, but with more room and a few more conveniences. Over the past three decades, it has become a go-to option for American families, who've increasingly demanded near perfection from their vehicles. Although it's a bit more expensive than the average mid-size and full-size car, owners can rest assured that it's worth the investment. According to fueleconomy.gov, a 2012 four-door model (4 cyl, 2.4 L, Automatic 5-spd) gets 23 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. Motor Trend states the average resale value of a 2008 EX sedan is $21,892.

3. Honda Fit

   Honda has hit another one out of the park with the Fit, which was introduced just before gas prices skyrocketed. One of the highest ranking affordable cars, it's everything you want in an efficient vehicle and then some. Its owners are most surprised by its roominess and comfort, neither of which are expected attributes of a hatchback subcompact. According to fueleconomy.gov, a 2012 model (4 cyl, 1.5 L, Automatic 5-spd) gets 28 mpg city and 35 mpg highway. Motor Trend states the average resale value of a 2008 base hatchback is $14,444.

4. Toyota Camry

   Currently, the Camry is the best-selling car in North America. Like the Accord, its archrival, the Camry offers everything but flashy styling, though the car is far from unappealing. The new 2012 model has undergone some notable changes, including a major redesign of the interior and some more subtle changes to the exterior. According to fueleconomy.gov, the 2012 model (4 cyl, 2.5 L, Automatic) gets 25 mpg city and 35 mpg highway, while the Hybrid LE gets 43 mpg city and 39 mpg highway. Motor Trend states the average resale value of a 2008 base sedan is $16,234.

5. Hyundai Elantra

   The rapid ascension of Hyundai as one of the leading foreign car manufacturers in America has coincided with the rise of Elantra. Before its redesign in 2006, it had developed a reputation of poor quality. In the last half-decade, however, it has moved into the class of Accord and Camry, as it boasts an enhanced engine, improved performance, a spacious interior, and distinctively eye-catching appearance that earned it the praises of car enthusiasts. According to fueleconomy.gov, the 2012 model (4 cyl, 1.8 L, Automatic 6-spd) gets 29 mpg city and 40 mpg highway. Motor Trend states the average resale value of a 2008 GLS sedan is $12,749. Note: confident in their cars' ability to maintain their value, Hyundai offers a Trade-In Value Guarantee, in which the company determines the worth of your car 24 to 48 months after you've bought it, and guarantees you'll receive at least that amount when you trade it in.

6. Volkswagen Golf

   Volkswagen's flagship car has been wildly successful all over the world because of its reliable German design and affordability. In the states, its evolution has corresponded with the evolution of the Rabbit, the name by which it was formerly known. Small and nimble, the Golf is surprisingly fun to drive, a major reason why it appeals to all demographics, from soccer moms to hip twenty-somethings. According to fueleconomy.gov, the 2012 model (5 cyl, 2.5 L, Automatic) gets 24 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, while the diesel version gets 30 mpg city and 42 mpg highway. Motor Trend states the average resale value of a 2008 Rabbit (previous name) base hatchback is $15,573.

7. Mazda 3

   Like the Golf, the Mazda 3 doesn't sacrifice performance and sportiness for practicality — the car has it all. Perhaps most surprising about the Mazda 3 is its deceptively large amount of passenger and cargo space, making it more than just a car for young bachelors and bachelorettes. Not short on power, it features a new fuel efficient Skyactiv engine with enough horses to get you from Point A to Point B in a hurry. According to fueleconomy.gov, the 2012 model (4 cyl, 2.5 L, Automatic) gets 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. Motor Trend states the average resale value of a 2008 I Sport Sedan is $14,926.

8. Lexus IS 250

   Car shoppers with a little more money to spend and more refined sensibilities may enjoy the IS 250, though the entry-level luxury sedan leaves a little bit to be desired when it comes to handling and acceleration, especially when compared to the IS 350. As with most luxury vehicles, it features an assortment of devices that are designed to enhance the driving experience. The extra money spent on those items, of course, is compensated for by higher-than-average fuel economy and general reliability. According to fueleconomy.gov, the 2012 model (6 cyl, 2.5 L Automatic) gets 21 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. Motor Trend states the average resale value of a 2008 sedan is $28,669.

9. Audi A5

   With a four-cylinder turbocharged engine comparable to that of BMW's 328i, the A5 is perfect for practical-minded drivers who also have a need for speed. The car's best attribute, though, is undoubtedly its sleek appearance, which sets it apart from other cars in its class. If you merely want to be seen, then you can opt for the soft-top convertible so you can cruise through town and let the wind massage your scalp. According to fueleconomy.gov, the 2012 A5 Cabriolet (4 cyl, 2.0 L, Automatic) gets 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. Motor Trend states the average resale value of a 2008 base coupe is $36,179.

10. Kia Sportage

    Another Korean car that has made immense improvements over its lifespan, the Sportage is now considered one of the better compact crossover SUVs on the market. It's almost unrecognizable with its new design compared to previous models, and its interior is surprisingly luxurious. Although the engine isn't exactly powerful, the transmission shifts smoothly, allowing for a pleasant drive regardless of location and conditions. According to fueleconomy.gov, the 2012 2WD Sportage (4 cyl, 2.0 L, Automatic 6-spd) gets 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. Motor Trend states the average resale value of a 2008 LX I4 Sport Utility is $15,956.

With a number of companies competing against each other and offering competitive rates, there's no reason you should be overpaying for your car insurance premium. As a conscientious consumer, it's in your best interest to periodically shop around. While doing so, keep the following ways to lower your premium in mind. Paying attention to those often-overlooked details can make that monthly payment much easier to digest.

1. Get multiple quotes

   The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) is an excellent resource for insurance shoppers, offering a consumer buying guide that collects and compares insurance premiums from numerous companies. Because the site isn't run by insurance companies or a shill for the insurance companies, it provides an honest assessment of each company so that you can make an informed decision.

2. Consider the car you're driving

   When haggling over the price of your next new or used car, consider the additional costs that will accompany the monthly car note, including insurance. Some cars, based on their risk and safety ratings, cost less to cover. For example, the Dodge Caliber is one of the least expensive sedans to insure, while a Porsche Carrera, for obvious reasons, is one of the most expensive to insure.

3. Add your second vehicle to your policy

   Insurance companies offer multicar discounts because it saves them time and money on paperwork from activities such as writing policy and billing. If you've brought a new car into the fold and are satisfied with your current insurance provider, then consider adding that second vehicle to the policy.

4. Look for discounts

   Many insurance companies offer low mileage discounts, which are best suited for drivers who aren't completely reliant on their vehicle for day-to-day use. For younger drivers, presenting a good GPA to their insurance provider could result in 5% or 10% discounts. Discounts on safety features such as anti-theft devices, and group discounts, which are awarded to members of professions or organizations, are also worth exploring.

5. Choose a higher deductible

   If you're a safe driver, then you should be confident enough to raise your deductible to lower your premium. A deductible is the amount of money you would have to pay in the event of an accident before the insurance company steps in and pays the rest. Jumping from a $200 deductible to $1,000 deductible, for example, could reduce your premium by almost half. If you do choose a higher deductible, be sure to have enough money saved up to cover it if an accident does occur.

6. Opt for the minimum personal injury protection

   Reliable health, life, and disability insurance should cover your medical expenses in the event of an accident. You can avoid paying double for the same thing by purchasing the minimal amount of personal injury protection required by state law.

7. Keep good credit

   A less-than-perfect credit score can bring forth a lot of negative repercussions in a variety of ways, including raising your insurance premium by a significant percentage. It's one of many factors considered by insurance companies in determining your rate, and yet another reason why you should continue to pay those bills on time.

8. Don't allow your coverage to lapse

   You should never allow your insurance coverage to lapse because you would be driving illegally, which could result in the suspension of your driver's license or vehicle registration. The other consequence is that it could disqualify you from receiving discounts that would lower your premium, as you may be classified as a "high risk" driver. Additionally, some states penalize drivers who allow their policies to lapse — the longer you wait to renew it, the more you have to pay.

9. Pay premium in full

   It may seem like a steep price to pay in the short term, but in the long term it can save you a bundle. The advantage of paying your premium in full is that you'll avoid installment fees, which can total $50 to $100 during a six-month period. The insurance company benefits by receiving the entire payment, and, as mentioned before, saves money on paperwork and processing procedures.